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Al Hilal Eliminates Manchester City in Club World Cup Thriller
Marcos Leonardo delivered a dramatic finish in the 112th minute, scoring on a rebound to hand Al Hilal a sensational 4-3 win over Manchester City on Monday night. The match, filled with intensity and drama at Camping World Stadium, marked the Saudi Arabian side’s progression in the Club World Cup, eliminating one of Europe’s strongest clubs in the round of 16.
Throughout the game, Al Hilal demonstrated grit and resilience, taking the lead on three separate occasions — twice during extra time. Kalidou Koulibaly’s strike in the 94th minute gave the Saudi club a 3-2 advantage, but Phil Foden, introduced in the 100th minute, responded swiftly with an equalizer in the 104th.
In a country where Monday evenings are more commonly associated with televised wrestling events, this match provided football fans with a captivating alternative — a night of unexpected twists and raw emotion.
The winning goal was especially poignant for Leonardo, the Brazilian forward who also scored earlier in the 46th minute. After the final whistle, he dedicated his performance to his mother, currently recovering from a critical illness that had her hospitalized for over two months.
For head coach Simone Inzaghi, the triumph came as a personal and professional revival. Just a month earlier, Inzaghi had parted ways with Inter Milan following a heavy Champions League final loss. Even with the absence of star players Salem Al Dawsari and Aleksandar Mitrovic, the coach now stands at the center of a remarkable triumph.
Al Hilal’s triumph not only signifies an incredible upset but also reflects the rapid rise of Saudi Arabian football on the world stage. The victory symbolizes a shift in global football dynamics, placing Al Hilal among the elite clubs with the capability to compete — and win — against European giants.
As they advance in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Al Hilal will next meet Brazilian champions Fluminense, who earlier defeated Inter Milan. A fierce battle awaits on July 4 at Camping World Stadium, where the quarterfinal clash is set to deliver more thrilling action.
Scoring Summary
- Bernardo Silva (Manchester City) – 9′
- Marcos Leonardo (Al Hilal) – 46′
- Malcom (Al Hilal) – 52′
- Erling Haaland (Manchester City) – 55′
- Kalidou Koulibaly (Al Hilal) – 94′
- Phil Foden (Manchester City) – 104′
- Marcos Leonardo (Al Hilal) – 112′
City nearly sealed the win in regulation, launching a late counterattack that was halted by a strong challenge inside the box. No penalty was awarded, sparking heated protests from manager Pep Guardiola, who stormed onto the pitch following the final whistle.
Next Match
Al Hilal vs. Fluminense – July 4
Camping World Stadium – Quarterfinal
The winner will secure a spot in the Club World Cup semifinals.
